If you are experiencing symptoms of a slipped or herniated disc, your physician may order imaging tests, such as an X-ray, CT scan or MRI. In some cases, a simple physical examination, medical history evaluation and neurological exam are all that is necessary for your physician to make a diagnosis. However, because symptoms of slipped discs can be similar to those of other neck and back conditions, your physician may find it necessary to issue a slipped disc MRI in order to see the location of the herniated disc and identify the effected nerves.

An MRI uses a magnetic field and a radio frequency pulse to make two-dimensional image “slices” of organs, tendons, ligaments, bone and other structures within the body. These images allow your physician to see the exact location of a herniated disc, bulging disc, bone spurs, and other degeneration in the spinal column.

Before the MRI test, you will be asked to remove all metal objects and medicine patches from your body. You may be ineligible for an MRI if you have a pacemaker, have an IUD or work around metal. Your physician can fully discuss any risks of an MRI with you.

During the test, you will lie on your back on a retractable platform that enters the center of the MRI machine, which often resembles a long tube. The test takes about an hour to complete and you will be required to remain still the entire time, so you may consider taking a sedative if you are prone to claustrophobia. Additionally, you may be alone in the scanner room for certain periods of time, but the technician will watch you through a window and you will be able to communicate through a two-way intercom. The slipped disc MRI will not cause any pain, but you may experience discomfort from lying in the same position for a prolonged period of time.

After you and your physician receive your slipped disc MRI results, your physician may recommend slipped disc surgery as a treatment option. If that’s the case, the good news is that there are less-invasive options to traditional open back surgery. Laser Spine Institute offers minimally invasive procedures that have been effective at treating slipped disc symptoms in thousands of patients. Our procedures are performed with significantly less damage to muscles and tissues, so recovery time is quicker than that of traditional back surgery. For more information on our procedures, contact Laser Spine Institute today.

Our medical professionals know that you expect excellence in terms of medical attention. We strive to go Above and Beyond your expectations and deliver quality, patient-centered care at each of our surgery centers.

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*Individual spine conditions, treatment and recovery times may vary. Each patient's experience with minimally invasive spine surgery will differ. All surgical procedures involve some level of risk. If directed to pursue surgery by your physician, prompt action is advised, as waiting may reduce the efficacy of surgical treatment. Some patients may require an experience that exceeds five days and others may require as few as four days. Patients may be required to rest 48 hours postsurgery. Postoperative instructions vary from patient to patient. Follow your doctor's advice. These procedures are reserved for those patients medically cleared and scheduled for minimally invasive treatment. Paid endorsements for Laser Spine Institute may not be for typical results. Laser Spine Institute requires each surgeon to complete an extensive Laser Spine Institute training program. MRI reviews are preliminary, and some patients' individual medical conditions may require additional testing that Laser Spine Institute will facilitate through a third-party service provider. Diagnostic procedures in some facilities are facilitated by Laser Spine Institute through a third-party provider. Medicaid currently not accepted.

**The opinions expressed in patient testimonials are by patients only; they are not qualified medical professionals. These opinions should not be relied upon as, or in place of, the medical advice of a licensed doctor or other health care provider.